International Law and Human Rights

The Master’s Degree Programme in International Law and Human Rights at Abo Akademi University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for careers in international legal practice, human rights advocacy, policy development, and research. This program provides a deep understanding of the key principles and legal frameworks that govern international relations, including the law of treaties, international humanitarian law, international criminal law, and the protection of human rights. Students will explore the historical development of international legal regimes and analyze contemporary challenges faced by the global community, such as refugee crises, international conflicts, and issues related to justice and accountability.

The curriculum combines rigorous academic coursework with practical skills training, enabling students to interpret and apply international legal norms effectively. Courses are taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in international law, human rights, and related fields. Throughout the programme, students engage in case studies, simulations, and analytical research that foster critical thinking and argumentation skills necessary for legal practice and policy formulation. In addition to core courses, students have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as international criminal justice, human rights advocacy, or maritime law, tailoring their studies to their career goals.

The programme emphasizes an international and multicultural perspective, encouraging students to develop a nuanced understanding of global issues from diverse viewpoints. It also promotes research skills, preparing students for advanced scholarly work or careers in international organizations, NGOs, government agencies, or legal practice. The academic environment is supportive and collaborative, with opportunities for networking and internships that enhance practical experience. Graduates of the program will be equipped with a solid legal foundation, critical awareness of current international human rights issues, and the skills needed to contribute effectively to the development and enforcement of international law, ultimately working towards a more just and equitable world.

Compulsory studies (80 credits)

1.1 Governance Through International Law (in total 20 credits) consists of the following courses:

• Sources and Principles of Public International Law (5 credits)
• Enforcement of International Obligations (5 credits)
• International Protection of Human Rights (10 credits)

1.2 Thematic Specialisation within the Programme (20 credits) In addition to the above given compulsory courses, students must further study 20 credits in the area of public international law. These courses can belong to the area of international human rights law, international refugee law, international humanitarian law, international criminal law, general public international law, or another field of public international law. Students can freely choose among the available courses (see the list of courses below).

1.3 Master ́s Seminars Paper and Methodology (10 credits)

1.4 Master's Thesis (30 credits) 2. ELECTIVE STUDIES (40 credits). The elective studies consist of two parts, 20 credits each

2.1. Elective specialisation 20 credits 20 credits in one freely chosen subject or thematic module. These 20 credits need to be within one subject or thematic module. They can be within public international law (see the list of courses), or any other subject within Åbo Akademi. In order for this module to qualify as a minor, the number of credits need to be 25, which affects the number of credits remaining as free elective studies (see 2.2 below).

2.2. Free elective studies 20 credits These studies can be in any subject(s). Contrary to 2.1, these studies need not be in one subject only. 

You are an eligible applicant for Master’s-level studies if

• you have a nationally recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution of higher education,
• you meet the language requirements
• your degree is in a relevant field for the Master’s degree programme that you’re applying to

The programme is open to all applicants holding a Bachelor’s degree in law or another Bachelor’s degree with at least 45 ECTS in law or other relevant subject(s). The applicants should be familiar with the basics of public international law and/or constitutional law.

The programme consists of courses and seminars offered to small or medium-size groups of 15-30 students and the language of instruction is English.

You can prove your level of language proficiency in English by submitting one of the following English-language test scores to your application:

• IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System): Scores in the Academic test with an average of 6.5, with no individual scores below 5.5. Even if you have the minimum score required in the different sections, you will not be eligible if the required total score is not achieved. Note that the IELTS General Test score is not accepted.
  You can attach a copy of the test report form to your application. The test report form must be verifiable. The results are valid for two years. 
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Total scores of at least 575 points in the paper-based test (PBT), or 90 in the Internet-based test (iBT). The Test of Written English (TWE) is required for those taking the paper-based TOEFL test.
  In addition to this it is recommended that applicants from China and East Asia, unless they take the iBT test, take the TSE (Test of Spoken English) if they have not studied in one of the following countries: Australia, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand or USA. The required score in the TSE is 45.
  The TOEFL reporting code for Åbo Akademi University is 9880. The results are valid for two years. 
• PTE Academic (Pearson’s test of English): Total score of at least 62 points. Once you receive your test score send it to Åbo Akademi University from your PTE account. Choose Finland as the “Country” and  Åbo as the “City”, then select the university you want to send your results to and confirm your order. After this, ÅAU should have access to your test results within 48 hours. Be advised that online language test results will only be accepted from the test organiser. The results are valid for two years.

Fee-paying students can apply for a scholarship to cover a part or the whole tuition fee.

There are three scholarship categories:

1. Full Scholarship, covering the tuition fee and includes a annual scholarship to cover the student’s living expenses (6 720 €), awarded for 2 years (second year conditional)
2. Tuition Fee Scholarship, covering 100 % of the tuition fee, awarded for 2 years (second year conditional)
3. Tuition Fee Scholarship, covering 50 % of the tuition fee, awarded for 2 years (second year conditional)

The decision to grant a scholarship is based on

• the academic performance of the student in his/her previous studies,
• how well the applicant meets the programme requirements
• the answers the applicants have given in the application form

When applying to Åbo Akademi University, applicants can indicate on the application form their wish to apply for a scholarship. In the application form the applicants are asked to answer a set of questions related to motivation and future goals. The answers to the questions will be assessed by the scholarship committee who makes the decision on granting the scholarships. In the assessment the following is evaluated: communicative skills, academic goals and general interest in the field.

The decision on the granted scholarship is given to the applicants together with the admission letter. In order to accept the scholarship the applicant must have accepted the study entitlement offered (binding acceptance).

Scholarships for the second year of study

The scholarships are awarded for two years. However, the second year is conditional depending on the progress of the studies. In order to qualify for the scholarship in the second year, a scholarship holder must earn at least 55 credits during the first academic year (the progress of the studies is checked in the end of May).

In addition to the scholarships listed above there will also be a chance to apply for a scholarship for the second year. This opportunity is open for all those students who have paid their fees during the first year or who have received a tuition fee scholarship covering 50% of the tuition fee in the first year. The requirement to receive this scholarship is excellent study records (GPA over 4), 55 earned credits during the first academic year and a good motivation to continue the studies.

The International Law and Human Rights program at Abo Akademi University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks governing international relations and human rights issues. The program is designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge of international legal principles, treaties, and conventions that address global challenges such as conflict resolution, humanitarian law, and the protection of fundamental rights. Throughout the studies, students explore key topics including the legal mechanisms for international dispute settlement, the role of international organizations like the United Nations, and the impact of international law on national sovereignty and domestic legal systems.

The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, encouraging students to analyze real-world case studies and participate in simulations and moot courts. This approach enhances critical thinking and legal reasoning skills, preparing graduates for careers in international organizations, non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and private sector entities engaged in international legal work. The program emphasizes multidisciplinary perspectives, integrating knowledge from political science, human rights, and international security to provide a well-rounded education.

Students have opportunities for practical training through internships and collaborations with international agencies, which help them gain valuable experience and professional networks. The faculty members are experts in their fields, bringing extensive research and practical experience to their teaching. Graduates of the program are equipped not only with solid legal expertise but also with a nuanced understanding of the socio-political contexts in which international law operates. This prepares them to contribute effectively to policy-making, advocacy, and legal practice in diverse international settings. The program is highly relevant in today’s interconnected world, where international legal issues and human rights are increasingly prominent in global governance and societal development.